Course Description

This course offers a broad introduction to the study of film. We will
consider such issues as: (1) how films are made and marketed, (2) how
films tell stories, (3) the techniques of film art, (4) methods of film
theory and criticism, and (5) important movements in film history.

A major emphasis of the course will be learning how to analyze a
film. You will be introduced to the vocabulary involved in film analysis
and will practice analyzing film sequences, as well as discussing films
as a whole. Examples for discussion will range widely, from different
countries, time periods, and genres. The idea of this course is that
film analysis can apply to all types of films, from self-conscious
"arthouse" films to summer blockbusters.

Classes will consist of lectures, workshops, and discussions. There
is no textbook for the course. Instead, you will prepare for class
sessions with short assignments that ask you to reflect on the topic
that we will be focusing on in that session. After the session, you will
be asked to do an assignment that uses the skills we developed in the
session. Regular attendance is necessary for successful completion of
this course. If you must miss a class, please let me know. But try not
to.